Volvo has not had the smoothest of electric vehicle transitions. You may have read elsewhere of software issues such as problems with driver assistance systems, inconsistent functioning of digital keys, error messages and issues with charging and air conditioning. While my lived experience with the brand's EVs has been by no means a disaster, I did expect much better.
The issues that arose during my time earlier this year with the EX90 SUV stemmed from the digital key. The vehicle sometimes did not unlock on approach and the door handles remained flush, preventing me from getting into the car. Bugs aside, the EX90 did not win me over. I do believe Volvo has ironed out some of these issues, but in a market of near infinite consumer choice, has the damage been done?
In what feels like the final throw of the electric dice, Volvo has now given us the ES90 saloon. It shares its underpinnings with the larger EX90 and is essentially the electric version of its executive S90.
So, did it impress? Yes, and then some. In fact, it was one of the few press cars I did not want to return - I was that impressed.
The ES90 is the first Volvo car with 800V technology, for a longer range and faster charging. The official range figure is around 640km, with a real-world of more than 550km easily achievable. The 245kW single motor ES90 uses a lithium-ion battery with 88kWh usable capacity producing 333hp and 480Nm. It can charge at speeds of up to 310kW on DC and 11kW on AC.
I did call the ES90 a saloon, but its raised ride height places it closer to the crossover SUV category. It is about 25mm higher from the floor than the S90, for example. The hatch tailgate makes it easy to load and unload luggage. At 424-litres, the boot is on the small side for this segment, particularly if you frequent the golf course. With the three rear seats folded loading space expands to 733-litres. There is also a 22-litre 'frunk' under the bonnet.
The interior of the ES90 is a wonderful place to be. Noise levels inside are very low, making it one of the quietest cabins I have been in. Despite a lack of physical buttons, Volvo has done a good job on keeping driver distraction to a minimum. The 14.5-inch centre screen display is very responsive and houses quick access to knock off the overspeed and lane assist functions. There are heated and cooled seats for all occupants. As we have come to expect from Volvo cars, the Bowers & Wilkins sound system remains one of the best in class. The transparency of the panoramic roof can also be manually adjusted.
The ES90 is available with a choice of three equipment grades: ‘Core’ from €79,995, ‘Plus’ from €89,900 and ‘Ultra’ from €102,595 (all prices exclude delivery and related changes ).
One of the smoothest cars I have driven, Volvo's new ES90 is a classy executive EV with a real Scandi personality. Five stars.
